The Mind of Mature Persistence

Dear Brethren,

When we are challenged beyond our strength, we have a God who is mighty on our behalf, a God who is able to resurrect the fainting spirit.Our choice to accept HIS strength and vision will get us through whatever He permits. Much love in Christ,

Joy

#244 The Mind of Mature Persistence Joshua 14.12 My husband Ben wrote this to my Mom, and it calls to mind another illustration of the Mind of Mature Persistence." I know your faith is strong and your loyalty is just as great. I often think of a black belt karate test I went to back when Joy was in karate. The final test consisted of the person being tested having to defend themselves against many foes attacking them. They kept attacking until they wore you down to where you had no strength left. Then the attitude, when all strength was gone, is what determined whether you passed or failed. How long the person being tested lasted did not really matter, it was the final mental control that mattered."I always think of this test when thinking of Jesus on the cross. "God only permits what we can endure. The stronger we get the more He will permit. You are very strong in your faith. You are in the middle of your so-called black belt test. You will get and probably have gotten worn down to where it doesn’t seem possible to keep going. The only reason your life is the way it is, is because God knows you and Rich are ready for this extreme test. God has confidence in you both and I do too. (I think God is the important One.)" “For we do not want you to be unaware, brethren of our affliction which came to us in Asia, that we were burdened excessively, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life;Indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves in order that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead;Who delivered us from so great a peril of death, and will deliver us, He on whom we have set our hope. And He will yet deliver us,You also joining in helping us through your prayers…” 1 Corinthians 1:8-11 “Take up the full armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” Ephesians 6:13